With heavy rain continuing across Belagavi district, the district administration has temporarily closed forest routes leading to several popular waterfalls and prohibited tourist entry as a safety precaution.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan said the decision was taken as water levels in rivers and streams continue to rise rapidly following widespread rainfall across the district.
The administration has urged residents and visitors to stay away from riverbanks and avoid attempting selfies, social media reels or any adventure activities near waterfalls during the monsoon.
Entry to Popular Waterfalls Suspended
As a precaution, forest access to the following waterfalls has been closed until further notice:
- Chikale Falls
- Parwad Falls
- Vajrapoha Falls
- Delta Falls
Tourists have been asked not to attempt entry through forest routes or restricted areas.
Guided Tourism Plan on the Anvil
The district administration is preparing a framework to introduce safer and regulated tourism at major waterfalls. DC Roshan said discussions are underway with the Forest Department and the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) to develop guidelines that could allow visitors through guided tours or limited batches.
The proposed roadmap is expected to be finalised within the next 10 to 20 days.
‘Follow Rules or Restrictions Will Continue’
Referring to last year’s monsoon season, the DC said several visitors crossed safety barricades at waterfalls, including Gokak Falls, to shoot social media reels and perform dangerous stunts, compromising public safety.
He said tourist destinations can remain open only if visitors respect safety regulations. Continued violations could force authorities to impose stricter restrictions in the interest of public safety.
200–400 mm Rain in Several Taluks
Over the past 24 to 48 hours, parts of Athani, Chikkodi, Hukkeri, Raibag, Saundatti, Kittur, Nippani and Kagwad have recorded between 200 mm and 400 mm of rainfall, resulting in damage at several locations.
Authorities have also pointed to increased inflows into the Krishna River due to rainfall in Maharashtra and upstream areas. Water from the Dudhganga and Vedganga rivers is also flowing into the Hippargi Reservoir, leading to a steady rise in water levels.